Jeff Schultz

By Raleigh Dog

July 28, 2008 10:37 PM | Link to this

Bring back Ted and Jane and Jimmy Carter!

By Wings fan in Ga.

July 28, 2008 10:44 PM | Link to this

Who is Jess Schultz? You didn’t get some kind of ‘operation’ did you?

By Dan B

July 28, 2008 10:46 PM | Link to this

first

By Blue water

July 28, 2008 10:52 PM | Link to this

Sale or give Cox away. Anybody can get in the hall of fame just by being in a place forever. His loyality is stupid. he would be gone if it was my money.

By Scooter

July 28, 2008 10:53 PM | Link to this

Ring looked good tonight didn’t he. Peteetong man.

By Firetheoldfool

July 28, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

The best thing the Braves can do is get rid of Bobby Cox.

By roman88

July 28, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this

these braves are too mildmannered and businesslike, find someone who will defend their teammates, get in someones face, this bunch doesn’t seem to care, when was the last time you saw a braves fight, better teams have bitter rivals and nearly fight all the time, but not atl, the phillies and mets are enemies, and it gets heated with them, just get someone with some fire, and desire to win and hustle, golden boy needs to go, and gotay, norton, kotsay, tavares, miller for sure.

By nelson

July 28, 2008 10:57 PM | Link to this

Atlanta needs to renew ,goodbye to glavine, smoltz & hampton and to chipper to change to texeira dbacks or Boston better to dbacks Chad tracy and to be new 3r baseman of braves and please they remove from the 2009 pendleton & mc dowell

By Tom

July 28, 2008 10:58 PM | Link to this

Looks like Murphy and his whole dang family moved into the Brave’s clubhouse this year. Whatever could go wrong has, now we’ll see something we haven’t seen in a long time - the Brave’s out of it by August 1 and selling off everything anyone will buy. I just hope we have the same kind of results the Marlins have had when they do this thing - a World Series Title!

By justin

July 28, 2008 10:59 PM | Link to this

When does football season start?

By Sean A

July 28, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

As I come to see, they need to trade Tex, but only under a possibly good enough trade. Te Diamondbacks trade possibility isn’t enough, they need to accept a deal from the Los Angeles Dodgers for 1B James Loney because he would be a perfect fit for the Braves. At 24 and not a free agent till after 2014, it’s perfect. But if the Braves can’t get anything better than that, I don’t see any accomplishment in trading him now when they’ll get as much out of it as they will with 2 draft picks for next season. Just let him wait it out and we’ll see what happens.

I mean the Braves have enough talent in the minor leagues to put at 1B, like Jayson Heyward. But just for next year and maybe the next, just someone who could fill the void in possibly till Heyward gets called up.

Trading Kotsay, Ohman, or Francoeur isn’t any bad idea also. Ohman and Kotsay will be free agents and Francoeur can be used to get what he’s worth now. His days are outnumbered if you ask me.

But overall I have to say this about it all and what will happened over the next few months that could change everything:

The added salary Atlanta will get.

Liberty Media will give the Braves 20+ more in the payroll meaning the Braves could go out and possibly get someone like CC Sabathia or Ben Sheets to elp the rotation. Also, they will have so much cap room open for next season. With Smoltz and Glavine looking like they will retire, Hampton’s contract expiring, etc. The Braves added with the new payroll will have somewhere to nearly 60 million open. That’s enough to get a big bat and pitcher.

We know this year has been a wreck for us Braves fans. But just think about this: 2009 will be pretty bright for the Braves.

By cityofdecatur

July 28, 2008 11:07 PM | Link to this

borrow my yamulke and put it on the reflection off that head is blinding me. my wife says it’s like the seventies and eighties @ this time of year it was wait till next year. and spring training was this could be the year. right this year really hurts. enjoy football season.

By Truth Will Set You Free

July 28, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

Jeff, I’m not the only one to notice, but have you?? When the Braves were staging that rally on Sunday did you check expression out on Larry’s face. He has one interest now “I have enough at bats let’s not do anything dumb and I’m the 2008 NL Batting Champion.

If the game would have been 12-11 Philadelphia top of the 9th, bases loaded and 2 outs and Corky Miller due up—Somehow I don’t think we are seeing a Kirk Gibson type limp climbing out of that dugout. He is GREAT!! BUT he is now, always has been a DOG, and a boorish one at that.

By Star of the Zanarkand Abes!

July 28, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

When does baseball season start? I mean REALLY??

By Sean A

July 28, 2008 11:09 PM | Link to this

As I come to see, they need to trade Tex, but only under a possibly good enough trade. Te Diamondbacks trade possibility isn’t enough, they need to accept a deal from the Los Angeles Dodgers for 1B James Loney because he would be a perfect fit for the Braves. At 24 and not a free agent till after 2014, it’s perfect. But if the Braves can’t get anything better than that, I don’t see any accomplishment in trading him now when they’ll get as much out of it as they will with 2 draft picks for next season. Just let him wait it out and we’ll see what happens.

And also. It’s not Cox’s fault everything has gone wrong, it has been the injuries. So cut some slack for Cox.

I mean the Braves have enough talent in the minor leagues to put at 1B, like Jayson Heyward. But just for next year and maybe the next, just someone who could fill the void in possibly till Heyward gets called up.

Trading Kotsay, Ohman, or Francoeur isn’t any bad idea also. Ohman and Kotsay will be free agents and Francoeur can be used to get what he’s worth now. His days are outnumbered if you ask me.

But overall I have to say this about it all and what will happened over the next few months that could change everything:

The added salary Atlanta will get.

Liberty Media will give the Braves 20+ more in the payroll meaning the Braves could go out and possibly get someone like CC Sabathia or Ben Sheets to elp the rotation. Also, they will have so much cap room open for next season. With Smoltz and Glavine looking like they will retire, Hampton’s contract expiring, etc. The Braves added with the new payroll will have somewhere to nearly 60 million open. That’s enough to get a big bat and pitcher.

We know this year has been a wreck for us Braves fans. But just think about this: 2009 will be pretty bright for the Braves.

By joey

July 28, 2008 11:10 PM | Link to this

hopefully TEX will bring us some pitching and an outfielder that can hit and stay healthy. The injuries are staggering to say the least. Smoltz, Soriano, Moylan and Kotsay were the biggest blows to this team to date… I hope we do not get in the rut of selling every year and have a revolving door roster. It is hard to be a fan that way…

By cutty

July 28, 2008 11:12 PM | Link to this

Jeff, why don”t you really say what’s on your mind? Please allow me. Baseball is hopefully in the post steroids era. Symptomatic of steroid use is premature breaking down of body functions. I”ve coached high school baseball for nearly 30 years, and the pressure most of my former players faced in college to “juice” was overwhelming. I can only imagine what it’s like in pro ball.I say that only to speculate that A] Cox is a steroids era manager and is unable to play the brand of baseball that requires hit and run, suicide, steal,etc. that this era demands. B] Maybe all the injuries aren’t just the luck of the draw.I have nothing but respect for Bobby Cox, but I respect the game more. What I”ve seen the last few years makes me wonder when, not if. the Braves should hold a future hall of famer accountable to the same standards the rest of us are.

By jeff

July 28, 2008 11:14 PM | Link to this

The Braves have not been in a worse situation since they started winning in “91, but anyone could have seen this coming from as early as spring training. If they had to rely on Smoltz, Glavine and Hampton to carry their rotation, that would be fine if it was 1998, but it is 2008 and anyone who expected this trio to remain healthy must be related to Bobby Cox. How the team has not sunk to the level of the Nationals or the Mariners is a revelation but there is still time this season for that to happen. The regulars should be at best bench warmers and the bench warmers should be in the minors. Cox has shown that this team has passed him by. He shows no innovation and no bold moves. The team is as predictable as they are bad. Francquer has become a total bust in the mold of Andrew Jones. Their best set-up man(Ohman) and their best hitter and all around player will probably be traded since the Braves refuse to entertain thoughts of spending enough money to keep either one of them. Chipper looked shot before he went on the DL.It seems obvious that he is no longer capable of remaining healthy or productive for a full season. In short, this team, more than any other, needs a massive overhaul. If they refuse to keep and sign Tex and Ohman they might as well start from scratch and hire a new manager to build aroung Jurgens, Escober and McCann. As it stands now, the players have lost all heart and any sense of competitiveness. Whatever Cox is saying to his team , his message is not getting through to the players. That is the major sign of a need to change the skipper.

By Robert S

July 28, 2008 11:17 PM | Link to this

Nice to see you can put a humorous face on a very unfunny season, Jeff.

Now we get to see what Trader Frank is made of…..

….and hopefully when all is said and done he accidentally trades Bobby Cox to the Beijing Bombers for a plate of Kung Pao Chicken and a side order to be named later.

By Anthony

July 28, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this

It’s all sad news today, but that Morton in the urn line might be my favorite quote from a sports column ever.

By hop

July 28, 2008 11:20 PM | Link to this

it was over in may for the braves and how much longer will atlanta have to put up with the liberty owners from of all places denver!

it is time to clear the decks and steal a page from the marlins who do quick well in fire sales.

By RichmondBrave

July 28, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

OMFG I am really having a hard time with this. The time has finally come that My Braves are reverting to being my father’s Braves. Getting hammered every night and selling off the only good parts at the end of July. We can try and put a happy face on and look forward to next year, BUT Wren is not going to be able to rebuild this team in one year. All of our Major League ready players are here now, and we suck. Atl has totally turned into loserville USA!

By roman88

July 28, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this

jason heyward is an outfielder, playing here in rome, and he’s doing great , but he’s at least 1+ yrs away from atl, this freddy freeman is also good but has alot of errors at first base.

By jimcpa

July 28, 2008 11:31 PM | Link to this

72% of the braves payroll is now on the d/l…

By Truth Will Set You Free

July 28, 2008 11:33 PM | Link to this

Now you got people thinking sabathia and Sheets can be lured down here. These guys want the MONEY sure, but after you have enough for next 4 generations you THEN think about winning. You AIN’T winning a World Championship in anything in Atlanta—only been done once in 42 years by 4 combined franchises,and this isn’t your daddy’s NL East.

By Bama1

July 28, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this

Now is the perfect time to reload. When the season is over hire a new young mgr to jump start these new player and lets roll. We need new blood the old Cox way don’t work anymore. Just look at the Mets with a new no nonsense manager. Win 14 out of 18 and go from 4th to 1st. also put the fear of God in his All-star SS. What has Bobby done lately, let Jeff stay in every game hitting 186 since his return from AA. What a Joke for jeff and BC. McGuirk is one big problem. He knows nothing about hiring a manager or players. What a shame to be a Braves Fan.

How many times this year did Bobby Cox put his best nine on the field?

By roman88

July 28, 2008 11:40 PM | Link to this

at least we got jurjens and campillo for bright spots next yr, itta be nice to get roy halladay, or matt holliday to bolster the outfield, maybe this liberty group will spend some to build the team back up, it’s alot better than being owned by the spirit group, maddux has a good era dispite the win-loss record too, atl is one team he’s said he’d come back to, in addition to the west coast teams. much love for smoltz but i don’t see him making it back or for much longer

By Chuck Uga

July 28, 2008 11:43 PM | Link to this

LET THE TRADING BEGIN!!! Teixeira for starters, and then throw in Carlyle, Boyer and Ring for good measure. Bobby, you have one more year (and tell him that AHEAD of time).

By Bryan

July 28, 2008 11:53 PM | Link to this

A) Trade Francoeur, let Tex go, Johnson eh no feeling put Corky Miller down put him out with Bobby Cox on Bobby’s horse farm. Francoeur is decent in the field but man he’s as bad as Andruw Jones when it comes to batting. Kotsay I want to like but I am a little tired of seeing fly balls land in center field like tonight, maybe we’re all just spoiled from Adruw.

By D

July 28, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this

D_ _ _ Jeff, amputation?!?! Good line. Anyway folks, how many teams ahead of us has lost their 1st, 3rd, 4th, and now possible 2nd starter to the DL for 60 days or more and their top position player to injury for 15+ games this year? Unless Jesus Christ himself manages this injury depleted team there is absolutely NO way this team could win with the injuries they have suffered. I have been critical of Cox at times but over the long haul you cannot argue with the results and for the last 17+ years he has won more games than anyone in baseball. Cox has done an excellent job keeping the Braves even within striking distance to this point, however it is over and this season is not on Cox. It is just bad luck and it’s now time to make moves to help us in the future. It hurts, but this is just the way the ball bounced for 2008. Let’s see what moves are made before the trade deadline and conutinue to move forward.

By gayle

July 28, 2008 11:58 PM | Link to this

In reality, the Braves have not been competitive for some time. All of the band aids to repair the lineup, rotation and bullpen have been just that.

Now would be the time that all of the prospects dealt over the past few years would be coming into their own and with a young and energetic manager like Fredi Gonzalez or Ned Yost to guide them.

The last true clubhouse leader, one who really spoke his mind, was dismissed to Cleveland. There is no room for more than one voice in this clubhouse.

Now the sins of the past have come home to roost and it will be more than a year or two before this team is competitive again. Because the fans and the media set the bar so low for this team, there was no real motivation to go to the next level when the team had the players to do it.

So the manager with the plethora of cute nicknames and the dubious record of ejections was cemented in place and the fate of the team secure. As long as the Braves could get into the playoffs, that season was considered a success - even if it ended in the first round with the opponent celebrating on our field.

Joe Torre had a run like that - and a few more titles than Booby - and he got booted. Cox should have been gone after getting swept in the ‘99 World Series.

And for the Cox apologists, while I agree the rash of injuries are not his doing, you have to acknowledge that counting on two 40+ pitchers and one who hurts himself shaving as the core of your rotation are decisions that are his and no others.

Do you think that if Booby didn’t want Smoltz or Glavine or Hampton that there is anyone in this organization to overrule him - the annointed “manager for life?

This disaster is his doing more than anyone else.

By cfc

July 29, 2008 12:05 AM | Link to this

Injuries obviously didn’t help, but the blame falls squarely on Bobby/Mngment. 1) No fire in anyone’s belly. I’m going to puke when I here a player say “we need to get hot soon” or Frenchy’s “yes it was a tough loss, however at 4-2, it can still be a good road trip”. 2) Attrocious Fundementals. What did they do in spring training or in the minor league system? No one can get the bunt down. No one hits behind a runner. Dumb throws, and of course Kelly’s one handed dropped pop up against the Phillies that was really God telling me I didn’t need to invest in August and September tickets. 3) Bobby totally mismanaged the pitching staff. I could give 20 examples this year. Leaving Boyer in Saturday with several lefties to face Dobbs. Or the day Acosta was left it to serve up 2 two run dingers to lose to Florida. 4) Where are the other coaches? Does anyone position fielders? Does Terry Pendelton get a bonus when batter swing at the first pitch?

Fixing this team is more than a couple of players. The leadership and overall mentality must change. We are 5 games under .500 for the past 2.5 years. 212-217. This is not a slump or bad stretch. This is exactly what this team is. 432 games of absolute mediocrity.

By justafan

July 29, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this

gayle, great blog, I agree 100%.

Bobby don’t have a horse farm…its a dog farm.

By ronp

July 29, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this

Because of injuries, we’ll never know how good (or bad) is this team..without Hudson, Smoltz and Chipper, we’re going nowhere. Losing Moylan and Diaz didn’t help either.

The team is not doing well because of poor performance…they aren’t doing well because their key players are injured…

Therefore, it makes no sense to strip down this team. For all we know, they might be 10 games ahead if everyone were healthy. We’ve got a great based upon which we can build.

Stay the course for next year…pay the price (stop whining) and sign Tex…get everyone healthy..retire Glavin and Hampton and use their salaries for a first class outfielder…sign Campillo and Jurgens for the long term…have patience with Francoeur and Kelley..they are young and yet to blossom.

Atlanta fans simply don’t understand Bobby Cox…he’s the glue that holds the fabric together…a definite Hall of Famer and one of the best ever baseball managers. Give him a talented or healthy team and he will give you a championship…don’t they get it?

By Gregory M Smith

July 29, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this

Bama1 u A-hole if its a shame to be a Braves fan go somewhere else!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Wilson

July 29, 2008 12:15 AM | Link to this

The Braves outfield runs around like the Keystone Kops.

You know it’s getting bad when the female ushers with their 60-inch hips have to try to get the crowds cheering!

By Curse Buster

July 29, 2008 12:18 AM | Link to this

Anybody remember the Jeff Schultz’s official hire date at the “Fishwrapper?”

He’s like the Cubs Billygoat… Jeff Schultz = a curse on Atlanta…

Fire Schultz end the curse

By david

July 29, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this

There is the Gwinnett Braves to look forward to in 2009.

By Bama1

July 29, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this

gregory m smith, I’ve been a season ticket holder for 12 years. How many damn tickets have you bought a-hole. put up or shut up. Its a shame to watch BC pick his nose.

By Coach (Lets Go Braves In 2010)

July 29, 2008 12:59 AM | Link to this

The Braves are more than done, they are finished as contenders in the forseeable future. 2009 is looking very bleak right now. Cox has definitely overstayed his welcome, time for the old goat to be put out to pasture.

The front office is in absolute disarray. The handling of Jeff Francouer was an absolute joke. To many excuses from to many people and nobody wants to be held accountable.

Leo Mazzone, Stan Kasten, Dayton Moore and many others knew when to man the life boats. Meanwhile, Captain Cox is going down with ship.

By Larry

July 29, 2008 1:53 AM | Link to this

There is no bigger disgrace in retaining Senile King, aka Bobby Cox, in all of sports. Been avid Braves’ fan since watching Milwaukee in ‘57 World Series in Yankee Stadium as 5-year-old, and 1958.

Injuries, sure a factor. Brain-dead inflexible 67-year-old mutt as manager? The coup de grace…kills team quicker than bullet to head by officer commanding firing squad. Makes worse decisions daily than captain of Valdez in Alaska…

From bunting with second hitter in first inning to playing Frenchy day-in, day-out shouting to world, “I’m smart enough to ressurrect a dead horse,” Brain-Dead Bobby surrenders four-five outs per game. Seen enough swings on pitches over his head? Not Bobby…just wait a few innings and Frenchy comes up again……swinging like a monkey trying to kill a buzzing mosquito….

Seen Royce Ring surrender runs in key spots, every single outing? Not Brain-Dead Bobby….Royce is lefty, a must-use vs. lefty hitter…. See Jo Jo (Touchdown) Reyes walk 6-7 batters per start? Not Bobby…. See broke-down Julian Tavares surrender rockets to opposing batters like a NASA test range? Not Bobby… See the same mistakes, the same one-run losses, the same poor decisions, day after day after day….flipping a coin at random would improve Brain-Dead odds… This team, this organization, these house mutts like T. Moore are a disgrace.
Even hillbillies selling ‘shine know s** from shinola…enough already. Fire Bobby, buy him a Rolex, and pay for that nice nursing home to talk to other shell-shocked old timers ‘bout the Battle of the Bulge………

By Check this out

July 29, 2008 3:23 AM | Link to this

daily minor league report

By BeachDreams

July 29, 2008 3:57 AM | Link to this

Braves get a clue. This is a once in a lifetime oppertunity. Don’t blow it. Lets review we can’t compete this year fine, so lets bite the bullet and reload for 2 or 3 years down the road. I knonow you want to make a charge again next year because losing sucks A nd Bobby , Smoltzie and Chipper dererve one more shot. Fine thats what we did this year and look at us now . Its simple we don’t have a Yankee size payroll so the fact is we can’t retool for next year. Lets look at the Tex trade rumor on Yahoo Braves are said to be asking for a prospect and either Conor Jackson or Chad Tracy in return. Braves are said to be asking for a prospect and either Conor Jackson or Chad Tracy in return. Braves are said to be asking for a prospect and either Coner Jackson or Chad Tracy in return. WRONG……..WRONG……WRONG…………. Tracy will make 4.5 million next year in the last year of his contract. And Jackson will be eligible for arbritration Neither of these guys are a corner stone player not even a nice piece when you figure in the contract. My god we are sitting in the cat birds seat with Tex, Kotsay, KJ, Prado, Infante and Gotay. One big centerpiece best player left at the deadline in Tex and thats huge. And several small pieces in the other guys that you would be surprized of how any teams mightwant and the prospects that they will give up for middle infielders. I see several of them going. And then every body is lining up for our bullpin pitchers caution caution Will Robinson We have to get a ton in return for our pitchers thats what wins and folks we are loaded. Lets brak it down. Starters first JJ no way no way no way Ok thats easy thae rest of the rooks won’t bring much in return so we should hang on to them let them take their lumps and re visit this winter. The bullpen is where it gets dicey Ohman has never been much before this year hes pitching great every body wants a hot lefty so lets be smart and get as much as we can. Gonzo and Soriano if they can stay healthy can rule the 8th and 9th inning for years to come. There is a risk with both but the up side is sky high. I say keep um unless we get an ofer you just can’t say no to Is there another JJ out there. Thats what I’an talking about. The rest of the pen get prospects not merginal players we will lose in a year or two. And thats what our mind set needs to be we don’t need any more marginal players we can’t afford in a year or two One last thought no trades for starting pitching with the A,s they all blow upo check it out. Don’t know what the hell kind of program they got over their in moneyball land for starters but it’s not very good on their arms. So lets go Bravos lets make some headlines I trust our scouts Prospects Prospects Prospects Prospects Prospects

By reality

July 29, 2008 3:59 AM | Link to this

What a bunch of maroons. How about we keep the team and trade all the fans? Been watching since 57, sure you have. How about a bullpen? Ever thought of that? In the 70’s and 80’s the Braves were usually out of it Opening day. The team made some gambles on some older players and they did not make it. When they are mathematically eliminated, it is over. Not now, Mr. been watching since ‘57. Now back the team, Bobby Cox, and STFU.

By Larry

July 29, 2008 5:43 AM | Link to this

Jeff,

I do not need to explain my question as anyone with more than a double digit IQ has understood this need for years. So, my question: when will you or another AJC writer have the flat out courage to stop playing it safe and say it’s time for Bobby Cox to retire? This team and attendance has been spiraling down for years and even though I have had season tickets in the “Hank Aaron” section for years I have lost absolutely any desire to fight the traffic to watch a Bobby Cox managed team! Seriously, is getting media access to the Braves’ culbhouse buffet that important to prevent some honesty from AJC writers?

Next year I do not want to see Glavine, Smoltz or any other has beens; I’m ready for a fresh start all around with new faces and that includes the old buggar picker!

By London Correspondent

July 29, 2008 6:03 AM | Link to this

Typical hater posting:

Seen Royce Ring surrender runs in key spots, every single outing? Not Brain-Dead Bobby….Royce is lefty, a must-use vs. lefty hitter…. See Jo Jo (Touchdown) Reyes walk 6-7 batters per start? Not Bobby…. See broke-down Julian Tavares surrender rockets to opposing batters like a NASA test range? Not Bobby…

That would be the same Royce Ring who didn’t allow an inherited runner to score in 25 consecutive appearances. That would be Jo Jo Reyes, a young starter who, as young starters do, has had good outings and bad outings - you all want us to bring up the young players, don’t you? Well, this is what you get. And, finally, that would be the same Julian Tavares who has given up 1 hit in the 6 appearances since his (admittedly bad) first one.

Bobby sees a lot more than you do, Larry, and he’s usually right.

By Jeff R

July 29, 2008 6:55 AM | Link to this

You know, I thought today’s athletes were suppposed to be better conditioned than any previous generation of athletes. And yet this rash of injuries to the Braves. When I was a kid, at least it seemed that players were more durable - that or they played through a lot of injuries that sidelines high paid players today.

By kevin

July 29, 2008 7:08 AM | Link to this

Hey season was done after 2001 after cox choke playoffs n never been back…And yes he was at fault if was not beatin his wife up he be better job…And no larry jones(chipper) will not win battin title anyway not enough at-bats.Franky needs be sent back to AA ball now….and AAA next year at gwinnett Braves…sorry Family of franky u son stinks now….So Wren Fire Bobby cox n TP n also Pitchin Coach…he not doin it.

By Don Keeballz

July 29, 2008 7:21 AM | Link to this

CAN SOMEONE PLEASE GET THE BRAVES A STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING COACH? I would rather have the Corky from Life Goes On playing catcher than our Corky.

By TNJeff

July 29, 2008 7:43 AM | Link to this

Gayle

Great comments as usual - which do I want more - Cox fired or you added to the AJC staff?

By 59bulldawg

July 29, 2008 7:45 AM | Link to this

OK … if you give us back our Richmond Braves I’ll take away the curse!

By John

July 29, 2008 7:57 AM | Link to this

Remember when Kelly Johnson dropped the final out against Philly? That play set the tone and the team has looked lost since.

As we all know, injuries have been the real story. No team in baseball could overcome what the Braves have been encountered. On top of that, Hudson and Smoltz are probably lost for 2009. If Braves fans think this year is bad, just wait until next year. They have a good farm system, but the impact players are a few years away. Here’s to another failed Atlanta franchise.

Why is everyone blaming Bobby? He doesn’t make roster moves, blame Wren. Remember this is the same Frank Wren, who ruined the Baltimore Orioles a decade ago. “Fire Wren” is what everyone should be saying. For the past 17 years everyone has claimed his greatness and now everyone (fair-weather fans) are bashing him. Typical, uh?And while your at it please fire TP, this guy has done nothing but set-back Frenchy and others.

If the Braves trade Frenchy, they will regret it. Sure, he is in a nasty funk, aka “The Andruw Jones Syndrom”, swinging at anything. I think he wants out of Atlanta (i.e. Hossa, Childress, JSmith, every Falcons player, and next year Kovy). The Braves dug this hole, now its their responsibility to find the right solution. Just because they will have a boat-load of money to spend doesn’t mean they will spend it. Remember, since Ted sold the team, Atlanta franchise owners have been cheap, with exception to Arthur blank.

To end on a good note, 2010 looks bright.

By Bill in VA

July 29, 2008 8:10 AM | Link to this

Who is Gayle? Give us more! You have it right. Agree with TNJeff.

By Miller Time

July 29, 2008 8:11 AM | Link to this

Well, we saw it in the early 80’s(83-90)and it is here again. Biggest difference is that there is no Smoltz, no Glavine, no Avery, no Maddox, no nothin’ in the foreseeable future for the hill in Turner Field.

Get something for Tex, but I hate to see him go.

Same for Chipper, he’s 35+ and the clock is ticking. Does he want to be the face of this disintegrating franchise any more?

Frenchy is French Toast here…he’ll bring a premium.

Corky Miller; is that his real name, and does he really play for us?

The old adage is about being strong up the middle. Pitching is noticeably absent here, but we have McCann, Escobar, Johnson and Kotsay, and that’s a good place to start.

Oh John Schuerholz, where art thou?

By Elton

July 29, 2008 8:12 AM | Link to this

A spot of bad luck eh ole chap. Headed back to the other side of the pond now. Best of luck and all that rot.

By Realist

July 29, 2008 8:18 AM | Link to this

We all know there have been injuries, but there have also been 22 one-run losses. If Cox can’t take any blame for the way this season is going, then he doesn’t deserve any credit for the 14 division titles either.

By Firetheoldfool

July 29, 2008 8:19 AM | Link to this

Larry Your 1:53am post is the best I have seen on any of these AJC blogs. You are dead on. The old fool BC is the PRIMARY reason the Braves have not been to the playoffs in the last 3 years. I am seeing more and more posts saying that Cox should go. Unfortunately, the Braves management says the old fool can manage as long as he wants. Anyone else with any sense can see he needs to be put out to pasture. I can’t take seeing that booger picking fool in the dugout anymore!!!

By Keeping It Real

July 29, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

The Braves were done once they signed Tex for a year and a half; elected to go with an old pitching staff and a linup with no speed; brought in a centerfielder with a bad back, traded off some good young talent(Salty for one); and were purchased by an owner not willing to put up the bucks to sign good talent. I will bet the bank that Francouer and Escobar will be gone at the first opportunity. Frankly, considering all the injuries, I am surprised that they are less than ten games out. They will be 20 games out before this disaster of a season is over.

No Tiger and no Braves. Well there is still the Falcons and Matt Ryan. YIKES!!!!!!! What am I saying?

By Doug

July 29, 2008 8:21 AM | Link to this

I prefer it this way. Better to be done in July than be the best team in the NL going into post season and then lose in the first round to the wild card team year after year. All the talk of how great the Braves were how is it the Florida Marlins have more World Series titles than the Braves? Besides, it’s time for football!

By Arkie Fan

July 29, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this

Time for a change - YES. Why get rid of Cox? He is a Hall of Fame Manager. The Cox era is over. New FIRE - Blood is needed. A manager that has no loyalties to present players - a perform to play manager. What I have seen of players that have been brought up from our farm system is very poor. Last night I was calling the location of every pitch Morton threw. His form and pitch release point were way off. Do we have coaches? Plan for the future - NOW. Looks like we traded all our top young players at key positions. Rebuild from the farm system up. I see no quick fixes, too many holes in the ship. JS, lets see if you have the guts to rebuild or just try for another patch job.

By GABULDAWG

July 29, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this

I see a fire sale coming. The Braves became famous by building from within. I think you will see some major trades upcoming. Tex is definitely gone but I’m not sure that is the right thing. Unless the talent we get is equivilent to 2 first round draft picks. We’ve had some luck in the first round and, while it is a crap shoot, you can typically get some major talent at that level. I don’t think trading Frency is the right answer. His value is down. Resign him for now and let him get his confidence back. It’s not like it will hurt us to have him playing right now. We’ve already done it for the whole season. Our future looks good in the field but we need some pitching to start developing in the minors. Put the young guys in there and let’s start building them up for the future.

By Ron Jon

July 29, 2008 8:48 AM | Link to this

Anyone could have seen this coming back in the spring. Smoltz was hurting even then. Glavine, Hampton?? Please…. The biggest disappointment is the disintegration of Jeff Francoeur. Just two years ago he was being hailed as “The Natural”…a pity he either can’t see the ball or doesn’t know the strike zone. But I wouldn’t trade him. His return value at this point is greatly diminished. Work on him in the off season to try to revive his career. But, get what you can now for Tex and Kotsay and start targeting a hitter and a starting pitcher in free agency over the winter. And, sadly, it’s time for Bobby Cox to give it up. His time has definitely passed.

By ben

July 29, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this

This team was done when ole Kelly Johnson missed the little league pop up against the Phils at home that cost them the game. There needs to be some changes in the organization. Just look at the trade for Tex. Those players traded for him are doing very well and now Tex will probably be gone in a few days.

By DHD

July 29, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

I love it!! we haven’t been in this position since 1990. This is a chance for us to get some young studs in here and let them develop. if it is done correctly, we can compete next year. The Marlins are an example for us. This is going to be a fun week.

By dgroy

July 29, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

Who cares? Football’s right around the corner.

By bedsheet

July 29, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

Since the beginning of he 2006 season, the Braves are 30 games behind the Mets and 18 games behind the Phillies. The most disturbing stat is we’re only 8 games better than the Marlins since 2006. They were 71 and 91 last year. The Braves have been a .500 third place team for three years. What did we really expect to see this year? We hoped to see a veteran pitching staff work its magic one more time, but knowing full well that the odds of that happening were a long shot at best. The injuries this year have been bad for sure, but this team lacks the basic fundamentals to compete for a title. The proof of the lack of fundamentals is all the 1 run loses. This teams just can’t do the little things needed to win ball games. The most frustrating thing I have seen all season happened again and again in this weekends games. An opposing pitchers walks a Brave’s batter and doesn’t look good doing it, and the next Brave batter swings at the first pitch he sees and grounds into a double play or pops out ending a potential rally. I like to think I know a lot about baseball, but we have to depend upon the Brave’s management to make some very hard decisions in the next few days. I hope they realize that whatever road they have taken in the past 3 years isn’t working.

By SOUTHERN BOY

July 29, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

MCJERK! YOU ARE THE MAIN REASON (“LIBERTY BOY”) OF THIS DISASTER! WHAT DO YOU ACTUALLY DO FOR A LIVING? GET OUT OF THE WAY AND LEAVE YOUR AIR-GRABBING SALARY SO WE CAN HIRE SOME SCOUTS!

By TheCutMan

July 29, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

Arguably,

Teix is the best player on the team right now and yet, we hear no apparent moves to re-sign the guy. You would think that exloratory talks would have happened by now?

Alas, this isn’t the way it works, I guess? Trade off your best asset before making a strong attempt to keep him for the long term? OK, fine.

By Firetheoldfool

July 29, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

Larry. Don’t let these AJC buffet-eating idiots sway your opinion. Again, you are dead on. Cox needs to go. Maybe you ought to be the manager!!!! OK, LONDON CORRESPONDENT. Maybe Ring and Reyes had good outings in the past. However, does’nt the manager have the responsibility to see that when they are getting their brains beat out now that it is time to make a change OR not put them in in key situations. Jeez.

By RJP11

July 29, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

Can we trade owners? Give us a friggin payroll to compete with, faceless corporate entity engaged in strategic tax machinations!

There shouldn’t be any damn corporate ownership in pro sports … consistent success requires a person or a group of individuals with deep pockets & a huge ego(s). Corporations don’t, & frankly can’t, really care.

By WILLY

July 29, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

OK, ALL YOU ARMCHAIR QUARTERBACKS THAT KNOW MORE ABOUT MANAGING A BASEBALL TEAM THAN BOBBY COX AND COULD HAVE PREVENTED ALL THE INJURIES OR MORE THAN LIKELY WOULD HAVE KNOWN TO TRADE ALL THESE GUYS BEFORE THEY GOT INJURED, PLEASE MEET ME AT THE STADIUM AS SOON AS THE BRAVES GO BACK ON THE ROAD. WE PLAN TO BURN THE DUGOUTS AND PLOW UP THE FIELD TO PLANT CORN. YOU GUYS ARE PANIC-STRICKEN AND THINKING WE SHOULD BE IMMUNE FROM BAD LUCK. LET’S JUST GO AHEAD AND CUT OUR NOSE OFF TO SPITE OUR FACE. WHAT A BUNCH OF WHINERS! WE NEED TO JUST REGROUP, LOOK AT SOME OF OUR YOUNGER TALENT, PLAY THE BEST BASEBALL WE CAN WITH WHAT WE’VE GOT, ENJOY THE REST OF THE SEASON AND QUIT THINKING ABOUT SELLING THE FARM JUST BECAUSE WE’VE HAD A BAD SEASON. THE BRAVES ARE STILL MY TEAM AND I’LL GO WITH THE PLAYERS THAT WE HAVE. THEY’VE MADE ME PROUD IN THE PAST AND THEY’LL MAKE ME PROUD IN THE FUTURE. I’M WITH THEM THROUGH THE GOOD TIMES AND THE BAD. I’M NOT GOING TO WHINE AND I’M NOT SMARTER THAN BOBBY COX ABOUT BASEBALL.

By Gray Mule

July 29, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this

This year’s Braves team remind me of the Mets in their 1st year of existence. Their manager, Casey Stengle was quoted, “Don’t any one here know how to play this game?” Wait for the three run homer? Why, when you don’t have the homer hitting lineup to do this. Galls me when we see professional players, paid a pot full of $$$$ and they can’t lay down a bunt. Can’t hit and run because they can’t make contact or they haven’t got the speed to run - or both. Braves current 25 man roster is made up of old guys, past their prime or youngsters, not yet ready for prime time. And, just maybe a few in between. Time for change? You better believe it. Gray Mule

By Bahama man

July 29, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

Thank You Willy, You’re right lets not quit on this team. To Gayle, Shut up and go back in the kitchen and bedromm where all women belong a sprts discussion is no place for a woman they know nothing and deserve less you are a disgrace to your gender and should be made to obey!!!

By steve

July 29, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

I am curious why of all the teams mentioned as having an interest in Tex, the Chicago White Sox have not been mentioned. They are in a tight race with the Twins. Tex would be a significant upgrade to what they have had at first base all year long.

To me, they are the team that would benefit most from a trade with the Braves. It will be interesting to see how this plays out.

By Elmer

July 29, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

Thank you in caps, Willy.

By don

July 29, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

Some thoughts (and facts):

By Drixie

July 29, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

“Campillo and Jurrgens and here come the surgeons” should be our 2007 pitching staff motto. Stick a fork in this year and start the rebuilding. We’ve got the makings of a good young staff with Jair, Hudson, Campillo, Morton, and Reyes. Take a look at the first year or so for Smoltz, Maddux, and Glavine and you’ll realize that 2007 won’t be a total waste if we get the young arms some innings. Move Chipper or McCann to first, keep Escobar at short, and make everyone else expendable. Hate to bandwagon, but Corky Miller should not be on any big league roster. If everyone was healthy (big “if” in 2007) we would have won the weak NL East by a wide margin.

By Drixie

July 29, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

“Campillo and Jurrgens and here come the surgeons” should be our 2008 pitching staff motto. Stick a fork in this year and start the rebuilding. We’ve got the makings of a good young staff with Jair, Hudson, Campillo, Morton, and Reyes. Take a look at the first year or so for Smoltz, Maddux, and Glavine and you’ll realize that 2008 won’t be a total waste if we get the young arms some innings. Move Chipper or McCann to first, keep Escobar at short, and make everyone else expendable. Hate to bandwagon, but Corky Miller should not be on any big league roster. If everyone was healthy (big “if” in 2008) we would have won the weak NL East by a wide margin.

By Drixie

July 29, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this

Oops! I meant 2008!

By Phil

July 29, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

Let me ask you Bobby Cox supporters a serious question. How long would he have lasted as manager of the Yankees or Red Sox? 2-3 seasons at most and you know it. They don’t put up with mediocrity which is where we have been for the languishing for the last several years. Give Cox a gold watch, a plaque, whatever and let’s move forward.

By willdave

July 29, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

Jeff Schultz, you are probably right on this one. The Braves have been stricken with too many injuries to key players to mount a serious run for the division title this year. The likelihood that all three teams ahead of them might collapse over the final two months is practically nonexistent. Too bad we must raise the white flag with 57 games left in the season.

By Kelley

July 29, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Jeff: Is there anyway to block the people who post this insanity about blaming Bobby? Let’s REALISTICALLY look at the situation: 5 of the 5 projected starters: injuried. 2 or the 3 outfielders: injuried. Short and 3rd: injuried. McCann: Run over at the plate Bullpen: Two of what could have been “closers”: injuried. The “Golden Boy” Frenchy: Sent down b/c of his lack of hitting And it’s the manager’s fault that the team is not in first??? Give me a break! It’s doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out why the season has been so bad (good thing, I don’t think a lot of rocket scientists frequent these blogs).

Bobby is great, but he does not work miracles. He cannot lay hands on his players to make them well. All of you can continue to post the ignorance about Bobby, but it won’t do any good. He will stay, thank goodness. People in baseball respect the heck out of him.
Any of you ever think too that you just can’t win every year and we were spoiled for 14 straight?

I hope they trade Tex, just so they don’t have to deal with Boras. Pack up Frenchy, I didn’t like his attitude. Kelly Johnson can go too if it were up to me.

By I luv bobby cox

July 29, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

I am a washed up player and I luv playing for Cox. Why, because no other manager would put me in the lineup, or hand me the ball when the game is on the line. I have an era of over 20.00 the last month, but Bobby knows talent when he sees it, and he knows I only throw one or two bad pitches each time I take the mound. He also knows that I usually throw 2 or 3 balls right down the middle when I am ahead in the count. He will tell the media that I pitched a great 1/3 of an inning, and that if I had only located the 3 pitches, i would have gotten out of the inning with only giving up 4 runs instead of 7. Good ole Bobby, he is the best manager in baseball, truely a player’s manager. I wouldn’t want to pitch for any other manager, actually I wouldn’t be allowed to pitch for any other manager. Signed, Ring, Boyer,Morton, Acosta,Buddy C, and Good Ol JoJO.

By Dave in Arizona

July 29, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

“So the manager with the plethora of cute nicknames and the dubious record of ejections was cemented in place and the fate of the team secure. As long as the Braves could get into the playoffs, that season was considered a success - even if it ended in the first round with the opponent celebrating on our field.”

Man, are you right on. I still remember those hideous lineups against the Yankees and Padres, with worthless Keith Lockhart right in the middle of them. People were always so pleased to win the division, and made it akin to winning the World Series. I remember idiot fans on these boards actually saying they’d rather win divisions than the World Series.

Injuries are a convenient excuse. Cox has tons of excuses for everything. This team has been crap for a few years now. They have no heart and no fire. They remind me of the businessmen who stop playing golf for a few minutes to make a couple of deals and if the deals turn out right, it’s completely by accident. Once in a while the ball drops right for the Braves, but with this team no lead is ever safe, and they can’t create runs. That’s why they lost so much in the post season down through the years. If Justice hadn’t homered, they’d have hauled out a Leibrandt or a Wohlers or a Reardon, and had unanimous chokes in that series too.

Since Tex is a ballplayer and shows up every night, let’s trade him. We need more guys like Hampton. What a joke of a team and organization this wreck is. It would be funny if it weren’t so sad.

By Kelley

July 29, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

I mentioned in my last post that I didn’t think many rocket scientists frequent these blogs, but I forgot to mention that I think Willy is as smart as a rocket scientist. Great post Willy-keep me coming!

By Kelley

July 29, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

I mentioned in my last post that not many rocket scientists frequent these posts, but I forgot to mention that I think Willy is as smart as a rocket scientist. Great post Willy, keep them coming!

By Phil

July 29, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

Kelley

Willy is Bobby Cox’s blogger name on here.

By Jack G

July 29, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

Fire Cox,Terry and Roger—-Hire Mattingly and let him hire coaches

By Kelley

July 29, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

OK, yeah I noticed the type o on the first post as soon as I hit send, too late to get it back though. Didn’t mean for it to be written like that. To Phil: Bobby Cox doesn’t read local media, so no, Willy is not him. Willy’s just another educated person out there.

By will

July 29, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

this braves team is pathetic,our LITTLE LEAGUE KIDS FROM GEORGIA HAVE WON THE LAST 2WORLD SERIES,COLUMBUS AND WARNER ROBINS,AND THESE PATHETIC PLAYERS IN ATLANTA YOU CALL BALLPLAYERS,BULL, THEY PLAY LIKE A BUNCH OF GIRLS,THEY NEED TO EWEAR SKIRTS,MCANN IS DOWN AND THE BRAVES DO NOTHING ABOUT IT,THE BRAVES NEED 2STARTERS THAT ARE GOOD,YOU PLAY THE METS 9MORE TIMES , GET 2GOOD STARTERS AND WIN THIS YEAR,THIS TEAM SCORED 19 RUNS IN 2DAYS AND LOSE BOTH GAMES BECAUSE THE BULL PEN IS A BUNCH OF GARBAGE, TAKE NOTES FROM THE MARLINS, AND BREWERS ,ATLANTA UPPERS,WHOS MANAGING ,YOST,AND COXS OTHER COACH,LOOK AT THERE RECORDS AND COXS,COX HAS TO GO,THIS YEAR ATLANTA WILL NEVER WIN AGAGIN WITHTHAT IDIOT, HE RUINS PITCHERS ,TOTALLY , NOWONDER BOYER IS PATHETIC,AND CHIPPER RETIRE,THE BENCH IS NOPLACE FOR YOU.

By jgon

July 29, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

I say get Andy back, i miss those strike outs in the clean up position. To bad Frenchy refused to sign, maybe he could bat after Andy. johnson frenchy, tex. and the pitchers will be gone. Think 2009.

By Doug in Tucson

July 29, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

This club is just loaded with players who are old (baseball standards) or are suited as bench players not starters. Good idea to try getting some prospects from teams actually in the race for post season play.The only place the Braves look solid at are Catcher and shortstop .. that is proof it’s time to back up the bus and rebuild. Maybe some kids from Richmond or Greenville could get some experience towards the future, that is why they were signed. I don’t fault Cox, he was fine when the Club was on cruise control… he is no different, just has alot of marginal talent to work with. A new hitting & pitching coach would help in MHO. We are all disappointed and frustrated, hopefully all the players feel the same as us diehard Brave fans do.

By vhhsawb

July 29, 2008 11:38 AM | Link to this

The “good luck” that followed us in all those championship years is paying us back. All you whiners think this is a quick fix issue. I respect your right to express your opinion but this is “real” life. Stuff happens. I am a Braves fan and will continue to be one. Loyalty DOES matter.

By T'ville Dawg

July 29, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this

Nelson, you speak purely from hate,whoever or whatever has upset you or what you percieve as something Braves has wronged you. To part with the most productive player in the org. is just stupid by any account. The Bravos are no better with Tex than they were when A.J. batting behind Chipper. You can only imagine what Chip may have done more with a legitimate baseball player behind him in the lineup.Remember this however whether the team can get a good value for Tex or not they will get a sipplemental first round pick from whoever is insane enough to pay him 22 million a year. Youkalis from the Bosox could be a good trade, he’s still fairly young and he puts up similar numbers for a lot less money. Tex was a good idea last year but he really isn’t all that, not for what he and Boras think he’s worth. To me this year boils down to Peter Moylan going down, you take that 1.2 ERA he had from last year and all of those innings and it’s going to effect anyone.

By Boca Bill

July 29, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

Come on people. Lets stop all the negative talk about the Braves. Yes, they are playing terrible this year. But just look at how many people are or have been on the DL this year. Looks like everybody is pulling a muscle these days. We all know that pitching is the most important part of the game and yet we counted on three old pitchers to carry the load this year. We need young healthy pitchers. The last few games we have scored enough runs to win but our pitching is terrible. Its not Bobby Cox’s fault. Somebody need to take Frenchie aside and teach him the strick zone. Pitchers will never give him a strick to hit when they know he will swing at low outside pitches.

By gayle

July 29, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

TnJeff, Bill in VA, Justafan, Dave in Arizona - Thank you gentlemen, you made my day.

Bahama man - Rather than question my domesticity, why don’t you challenge what I said? Tell me why I am wrong rather than resort to mindless male bluster.

By minime

July 29, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

Stick a fork in…. they are done. So much could be said but hey, what the hey!!! If ducks & wishes were cardboard & dishes, it’d still be a mess. If they just knew how to hit!

By Forever Fan Jody

July 29, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

I think we’ve obviously reached the point where the front office needs to make some changes in the management/coaching of the team. Their loyalty to Bobby Cox has been costing the Braves for years and, unfortunately, we’re seeing the sad reality now. You certainly have to attribute some of the problems of the 2008 Braves to the injuries, but we didn’t have as many injuries in past years and we still grossly underachieved. All you have to do is listen to Bobby Cox after a game. His pitcher may have just given up 10 runs but all he ever seems to say is either, “They hit some awfully good pitches tonight,” or “He was throwing the ball real good, the breaks just went their way.” There is never an admission that his team just plain stunk that night. If you don’t recognize a problem, how can you ever fix it? The same can be said for Terry Pendleton as hitting coach. He’s befuddled by his hitters? Are you kidding me? He gets paid to know his hitters inside and out. If the Braves want to be contenders again, and if we’re now in a rebuilding stage, then it seems obvious that the rebuilding should include all aspects of the team. Has Bobby ever been that good, or was he just blessed with excellent players and few injuries? I love the Braves, always will, but loyalty only gets you so far; 1 world championship and a bunch of mismanaged disappointments.

By Phil

July 29, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

Boca Bill,

Who’s reponsibility is it to take Frenchie aside and teach him the strike zone?? Uh, I think that’s called the manager. If TP can’t do it, then Cox himself needs to interject. Another example of why Cox is oblivious as to what’s going on. Been this way for years and years.

By BubbaGump

July 29, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

Total lack of fundamentals - Frenchy reading and believing the press releases about his prowess in the field and throwing over the cutoff man by at least 25 feet every time. Not only does the runner not get tagged out at the plate, but the trailing runner(s) end up moving into scoring position. Pitchers continue to throw him sliders (not within a foot of the plate) and he flails at them to record another “K”… He doesn’t just need to go back to the minors, he needs to go back to Little League and learn (no relearn) the concepts of outfield play and hitting. Where was Morton on those wild throws to the plate? Was he backing up his catcher? No, he was confused, somewhere between third and home, then, in a brilliant moment, decided he had to cover the plate and almost ended up sandwiched between the runner and catcher… Kelly “eff’n” Johnson (to borrow Bucky Dent’s middle name) one-handing a sure out against Philly… Escobar swinging at the first pitch with two runners on after the pitcher issues a 5-pitch walk to the previous batter… Corky Miller - a “major league” player hitting .100 in late-July… Lack of fundamentals, plain and simple. The way these guys are playing, they would have been release from rookie-league, short-season “A” ball… What an embarassment!

By gayle

July 29, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

Jody - great post! I can feel your pain!

There is a place for loyalty in sports and elsewhere, but it has been taken to an extreme here and it has indeed hurt this team and this organization a great deal.

This is not anger or revenge or vitriol as some have suggested here, but it is long past time for this team to make some significant changes. The status quo has expired.

By Greg

July 29, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

Brian Jordan said it well Monday night - Tony LaRussa is a handons manager who manages every situation. Bobby Cox says let them play. That is why we are 1-15 over the past 16 years.

By BFF

July 29, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

I thought ronp’s blog was stupid but willy you get the price. Congratulations you have won another blown season for next year as well. Somebody buy the Braves beside corporate America. We are going to be the same old below average team until we have a one owner.I think T- BOONE PICKENS is in the market for a team.T - Boone bring some of those Wind mills over and blow away some of these old farts that have been stinkin up the place for the last 3 years and blow that choppin cow onto 75 south.

By Navigator

July 29, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

The Braves have really held onto their past way to long. I loved those teams in the 1990’s, but why are these players still here (including some brought back). Cox has outlived his welcome with the Braves, as has Chipper (injured again), Glavine (injured again), Smoltz (injured again) or anyone else from that era. Folks it’s 2008 and we’re about to move another decade away from the good old days. If the owners really want to have a future they need to clean house for that future. I would be happy to watch the development of a new team, but I really can’t stand to watch the Braves hold onto the past.

By Robert

July 29, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

“Give him (Cox) a talented or healthy team and he will give you a championship”

Yeah - once every 14 tries

By BlackberryCobbler

July 29, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

I’m going against the grain here—- why must we trade Tex? If we can find a way to keep him, why not keep him. Somebody other than Chipper has to be a veteran on this team.

I don’t see us getting near enough in return for Tex.

Keep Tex but get rid of Glavine and Hampton and Kelly Johnson and Franouer and Corky Miller please.

By wickcauthorn

July 29, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this

Smoltz $14 million, Hampton $15 million, Glavine $8 million, Kotsay $7 million, Texiera $12.5 million…Julian Tavarez makes 3.8 million and I think he’s gone…that’s half the payroll gone. There’s enough money just with Kotsay being replaced by that guy in Mississippi that does HGH.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/teams/salaries?team=atl

The braves need to keep Tex, and they can afford him for 18-20 million/year. That’s what Andruw Jones was making.

Besides, unless they get some really really really good young players, then they can’t afford to trade him for nothing…I think they ought to get rid of everybody’s homeboy “Frenchy”

But, maybe they could do both with Tex. Rent him to the Dbacks for two months then sign him in free agency…if it gets to free agency without a contract (which is what Boras is going to do), then he might get 110 for five years from someone (Yankees, Cubs, Mets, Dodgers).

I don’t know…I had such high hopes for this season…just proof positive that you can’t expect much out of players in their late 30s and early 40s…you can’t build a team around athletes that are likely to get hurt…even if Glavine didn’t have a history of injuries, he’s over 40. We knew that Smoltz could implode at any time. We knew that Hampton is made of glass (he’s also stolen more than $50 million, basically). Chipper’s been hurt every year for the past 4 or 5. That’s 3/5ths of the starters and the anchor of the lineup that you knew could disappear at any moment. Add a 30 something itinerant outfielder to center field, and you really are sitting on a keg of black powder.

This was the last shot for this group of players (really just Chipper and Smoltz) and it’s going to be a while before the Braves have another run in them…they’ve given up a lot of good prospects over the last three years trying to tread water.

Maybe that’s what needs to happen, though. Blow the whole thing up. Get rid of basically everyone except McCann, Kelly Johnson, Jair Jurrjens, and Yunel Escobar.

It’s just disappointing to watch this happen. Tex wants to stay in Atlanta, I think he’d prefer to sign a long term deal with the braves. he’s 28, that means he’s got 5 or 6 more really strong years in him. You could sign him to 7 years for $135 and front load the contract for the future. Hell, pay him $25 million next year, pay him $25 the next, and then pay him $17 every year after that. Why not, there are young players up and down the roster, and when his contract opens up $8 million, you can keep Jurrjens or Johnson or Escobar.

Johnson makes $430k, Jurrjens makes $390k and Escobar makes $402k. That’s cheap, and it means that you can pay more to Tex right now and less later when you have do make decisions about these three guys’ future.

By Forever Fan Jody

July 29, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

Keep in mind that way back in 1990 it was none other than Bobby Cox, then the general manager, who traded Dale Murphy to the Phillies for 3 little leaguers. Granted, Murph was on the downside of his great career, and he knew it was time for David Justice to take over right field, but that trade was an insult to both Murphy who WAS the Braves in the 80s, and the fans. That trade alone foreshadowed the decisions Cox would make as field manager. John Schuerholz is the man who, for 14 years, gave Bobby the players necessary to win far more than 1 championship. A manager manages, he doesn’t just sit back and let the chips fall.

By Abe

July 29, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

I can’t wait to see the “brilliant” move that Wren comes up with.

I could also see him signing Manny to the most lucrative contract ever in the off season (he did it with Albert Belle in 1999)

By Brendan

July 29, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox is under contract for one more year, right? Boy, the ink on that 1995 World Series headline is looking mighty faded. Is it true, Jeff Schultz, that the last time the Braves won a game in the World Series, it was 1996? And nobody has thought to make a change at the Skipper position?

By bobby cox's wife

July 29, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

Please don’t blame Bobby for the bonehead managerial moves he makes, because he will only come home and beat me.Bobby loves his players and he want ever yell at them or criticize them, or God forbid bench them if they aren’t playing well. The only people he will yell at are me and the umpires. There is a reason this team is below .500 for the last 3 years, and it certainly isn’t Bobby’s fault,just ask our son Chipper.

By Ed

July 29, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

When’s the AJC going to have a firesale?

By Ed

July 29, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

Raleigh Dog, Ted and Jane are bad enough…but Jimmy Carter? Didn’t we suffer enough the first time?

By Keeping It Real

July 29, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this

Signing Tex for a big salary is ridculous. Let him go and use the salary savings created by him, Glavine, Hampton,Kotsay,and others to pay Escobar, Johnson,Jurjjens and bring in some talent(speed and pitching) to support what we already have with Frenchy(if he is healthy) and McCann. Bring up the kids in the minors and put them on the field to see what they have. Stop playing old guys with inflated salaries based on previous performance. The Marlins keep turning over young rosters with different managers and winning with low attendance and revenues.

Finally, stop blaming Bobby Cox. He is the best at getting things out of his players. He cannot hit, pitch, and catch the ball for them. Get real folks.

By Robert

July 29, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

Bobby Cox is simply the worst manager in all of baseball and quite possibly the flat out stupidest human being to ever don a uniform

By Blaine Boyer

July 29, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this

Guys you need to get off of Bobby’s back. He has stuck with me the past couple of months when I couldn’t get anyone out, and did you see how well he handled the pitchers last weekend in Philly. He pushed all the right buttons, I mean this guy is lights out when it comes to bringing in the right pitcher at the right time. Me, Ring,and JoJo, are 3 of the hottest pitchers in the National League when it comes to giving up the tying or winning run in do or die situations. And Bobby is a guy who studies stats, and he knows who is hot and who is not. He also knows who is pitching with confidence, and my confidence along with JoJo, Morton, and Ring’s has never been higher. Bobby Cox = best manager in baseball, at least that’s what they told me when i was 8 years old in 1991.

By varoadrunner

July 29, 2008 2:26 PM | Link to this

OH MY!

Maybe Bobby should change his mind and RETIRE. Since we’ll be starting over next year, maybe he should allow us to do it without him at the helm. All the BS from Terance Moore and others that feel he is the last coming of Christ, should face it. We need new management. The whole group of em. No more TP! No more McDowell! No more COX!

If we’re going to start fresh, let’s make it really fresh.

I’m guessing we won’t have Smoltz (or at least not an effective one), Glavine, Tex, etc. Who else will go?

Anyway, let’s get a fresh start.

Settle for nothing less than Conor Jackson from the D’backs. I wouldn’t WANT to give him up either, but to get Tex, mosey up to the plate D’backs.

Frank, please don’t soften up in your rookie year. Go for the gold in ‘09.

By Michael

July 29, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

The Braves has not been the same ckub since Kelly Johnson droped the pop up against Philly. This loyality business about Cox has to stop. Boyer was not throwing strikes on Saturday and he kept him in the game. The same for Reyes on Sunday. Frenchy need to be in the minors learning the strike zone and Corkey need to be released. I cannot understand why a position player batting .103 is on a major league roster. Roger McDowell needs to go also. There has been nothing but problems with the Brave pitching staff since he been the coach. Bring back Leo asap.

Michael

By 2Homo Boys

July 29, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

The Braves problem is not all of Bobby Cox’s fault or Roger McDowell,the problems are all the injuries the Braves had to go through this year and the past few years.when you got the majority of your team down with injuries and you having to pitch rookies there are going to be losing games.yes Bobby and Roger are partly to blame but also give them both credit,they have done a good job with what they had to work with,also everyone keeps bashing TP,he can’t perform magic and make the hitters hit.as my husband and I recall we remember instances where Andruw Jones refused to listen to TP.that is not TP’s fault and he can’t be held responsible for a hitter not listening to his advise,the Braves coaching staff is very good and should not be bashed by fans blaming them for the disastrous season.the truth of the matter is it is the injuries.the solution is to make trades and plan for next season with Bobby and all his coaching staff returning.Chipper himself even said the same thing,it is not Bobby’s fault. if everything was reversed and the Braves were in first and won the world series some of you Morons would still be b*** and complaining.Praise our team and lets look forward to next year with a new healthy group of players. Smile guys, Jim and Tim the 2 Homo boys love you,come visit us at the new gay club in Marietta.my husband Tim will be singing there this weekend.see ya there.

By varoadrunner

July 29, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

I have a question

Would the Yankees dump Girardi if the Yankess don’t make the playoffs?

He’d be the one that I would pick to direct the Braves with new strategies. The old strategies became obsolete a while ago.

I’ve been OK or evewn happy with our Division titles. So what that the Braves only had one world Series title in the run… They were winners during the year.

This team is playing in an unacceptable manner. I no longer know how to win. Clearly, the 1 run losses demonstrate their inability to win.

Anyway, I’d like to see Girardi in ATL.

By Boca Bill

July 29, 2008 4:26 PM | Link to this

With half the team on the DL could the team have a problem with the training and weight lifting etc? Twenty years ago I don’t remember clubs having half the team on the DL. You don’t really have to be muscle bound to play the game of baseball.

By Hillbilly Deluxe

July 29, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

Even in the good years Bobby Cox teams have always been weak on fundamentals. It cost them dearly in the post-season many times.

By Ken

July 29, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

I have to admit that going into the season, the Pitching Staff of Smoltz, Glavine & Hampton scared me, Jurrjens and Campillo have been as advertised and more. Francoer needs to re-focus and spend more time working on his game and less time on blogs and reading his press clippings; his future can be bright! It would be nice to see that future as a Brave and not someplace else. I sure don’t think a fire-sale, as some of you are calling for is the answer. If any of you don’t think Chipper wants to win and gives his all out there, then you are crazy! I have been a Braves fan for more than 40 years and I remember those days when the Braves were the worst team in baseball and I certainly don’t want to go there again; for those of you who keep harping about salary, the Marlins make A-Rod money, the D’backs, Rockies (last years NL Pennant Winner) all have lower salary than the Braves; so evidently it is possible to have a lower payroll and still have success. Maybe it is time for Bobby Cox to go, but maybe because of what he has meant to the Braves; he has earned the right for that to be his decision. I like Tex, but I think we all knew that he in all likelihood would not be a Brave beyond this season; it was a chance that had to be taken and it isn’t his fault that the team hasn’t realized more success; his #’s as a Brave are almost identical to his carreer #’s. The injuries have been the huge problem, turn the 1 run record around and the Braves arguably have the best record in all of baseball, based on that; maybe next year will be just the opposite of this one, and as I said earlier; I have been a Braves fan for 40 + years, so I can tell you that I enjoyed those 14 years alot more than the past couple or for that matter many of those other years between 1969 and 1982 or before 1991. I am going to try to trust that the same team that did win for 14 years will do what’s necessary to return to that level again. “GO BRAVES”

By Nice School Picture

July 29, 2008 6:42 PM | Link to this

Jeff, los the pictur, it’s disturbing/ Whatever your sitting on I hope is enjoying the moment as much as you

By Bravissimo

July 29, 2008 6:43 PM | Link to this

Schurholz, Cox, Wren. Blame any or all but this team was far too iffy coming out of spring training. There were a handful of sound players and the rest were aging, surgically repaired, injury prone, has-been bench warmers or unproven youngsters. This team has been patched up three times too often. It’s time for a complete overhaul and that may take some time. With a number of astute trades it may be possible to revitalize the minor league system. As it is we have already seen most of the promising talent from the high minors and I don’t believe there will much coming up from Richmond. That AAA club has a worse record (.417) than the Atlanta team. I have no way of knowing how the Liberty budget constraints have affected the minor league and scouting systems but I have a strong suspicion that the Atlanta Braves are no longer the elite organization that Ted Turner (and TBS) underwrote. If that is indeed the case in the future the Braves will have to scramble for a day in the sun with all the other midmarket teams. The glory days may well be over but what a thrill ride it was. It’s too bad that many fans never realized just how special it was.

By kr

July 29, 2008 6:53 PM | Link to this

Yes the Braves are playing horrible baseball this year, as well as the last few, but They do have some very good talent. Francoeur, Mccann, Reyes, Jurrjens, Escobar, Anderson, lillibridge, Jones, and Schafer all have what it takes to be good or great major league players. The problem with the Braves is that they have an outfielder, Johnson, playing second base, a Right/Left Fielder, Kotsay playing center and have no production from Left Field, yea maybe Blanco provides a spark every once in a while he is not an everyday player yet. The braves can have a very competative team nest year if they make 2 maybe three smart trades here at the deadline. 1) I hate to say it but Tex has to go, we can get atleast a #2 or #3 starter for him plus a mlb ready player for next year. 2) Ohman, Kotsay, and Johnson gotta go, and we can easily get an everyday infielder and outfielder with these three names. then if they are aggressive in the off season and land one or 2 big names then this team could come away from this year and into next year looking a century younger in the starting rotation, and a lot more solid in the field. Our home run total as a team will probably drop but we don’t hit home runs in the clutch now anyhow. Besides Chipper, Tex, and Mccann this team sucks at doing the small things right. So the way I see it is that giving up a little bit of power for some consistent, small ball, ball players the loss of overall home runs will not hurt because we will score runs the old school way by getting bunts down and sacrifices when we need them. Now for all of you out there who are jumping of the braves wagon just stop and think about this, in baseball history rookies struggle until they get comfortable and the braves have used a ton of rookies this year. Jurrjens is the only one who has handled the pressure and he sucked last year in the handful of games he played with the Tigers. So if Reyes and Morton get comfortable this year and break out next year you could have three 15 game winners, potentially. And both Reyes and Morton have very good stuff and both can be great pitchers in the near future if they can learn to be consistent. I’m a die hard braves fan and and I’ve seen first hand how the game can throw you a curve ball when your expecting the heater and I believe this Braves team has the young players that can take us on another long streak of division titles and maybe a world championship

By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2009)

July 29, 2008 7:52 PM | Link to this

Look at the whole picture.

This what the Braves gave up: Salty (1st rounder), Andrus ( amateur free agent), Harrison (3rd rounder, Feliz (amateur free agent), Jones (1st rounder), Mahay ,Teixeira and two 1st round draft picks.

This is what Atlanta got in return: Kotchman (1st rounder), Marek (40th rounder)and Devall (1st rounder).

Thats three players in exchange for N-I-N-E. Two 1st round picks for five 1st round picks.

The Braves GOT H-O-S-E-D, R-A-P-E-D and taken to the damn cleaners. somebody needs to be fired. Immediately.

By Keeping It Real

July 29, 2008 8:14 PM | Link to this

How in the hell can you give up all this young talent for a guy(Tex) who would go to the highest bidder after a full season and a half? You know that the Braves could not and would not match offers from other teams. STUPID!!!!

By Jburro

July 29, 2008 8:43 PM | Link to this

They didn’t win 14 years in a row, they won 1 year is 15. Less than a Championship is not the goal. Ask anyone in upper level management if excuses are acceptable when you don’t do your job. All other teams fire their manager (i.e. Mets) when the team is not doing their job, so should the Braves. We should also trade Francouer to show the rest of the team that performance is required, not optional. If you really want the team to rebound, now, next year or whenever, Management has to go.

By wg

July 29, 2008 10:41 PM | Link to this

Have been a Braves fan since they were in Boston. Just finished watching tonights game against the Cards. Game Blown By Cox when he had Compillo fake a bunt then swing away and Yunel Bunt when he should have been swinging. Cox seems to have finally lost it altogether. Can we get out of his contract for next year? We need to acquire a power hitting left fielder for next year and sanwich Blanco between left and right. Frechy should be able to come back. Don’t forget his age. Your lineup next year should be:

Blanco CF Escobar SS Chipper 3B ? ? ? LF McCann C Kotchman 1B Francour RF Johnson 2b P

Not a bad lineup. It gives Francour a little protection and takes some pressure off.

Infante is a perfect sub if you can get him some regular playing time.

Salmon as the backup catcher. Prado as the reserve infielder Gotay as a good pinch hitter.

Sign a top flight starter to pair with Jurjens and Campillo.

Gonzales as your closer. i don’t know what to do about Soriano. He soesn’t like setting up. Maybe dump him if possible.

That looks like a pretty good lineup if tweaked right.

By Rock Lea

July 30, 2008 12:31 AM | Link to this

Good for TEX!

Good luck buddy, you deserve a market that brings more than 1/2 capacity crowds to the park. You’re a gold glove slugger and deserve bright lights and a postseason.

See you in Fenway tonight! Good luck against Beckett and have fun in a pennant race…you deserve it. It is something which the Braves won’t see for a while if they continue to makes moves like this.

Rock

By gabe

July 30, 2008 12:39 AM | Link to this

they should keep kelly johnson & jeff francour build around the young core they have especially since they jus added kotchmen..johnson,francour,mcCann,escobar,jair jurigens..

the front office actually needs to go out into the free agency market n spend some money .. can u guys refresh my memory on a big name theyve signed

By bill

July 30, 2008 2:10 AM | Link to this

anywhere else, booby would have been gone after 1996.

By bill

July 30, 2008 2:12 AM | Link to this

anywhere else, booby would have been gone after 1996.

By bill

July 30, 2008 2:15 AM | Link to this

anywhere else, booby would have been gone after 1996.

By bill

July 30, 2008 2:17 AM | Link to this

anywhere else, booby would have been gone after 1996.

By richbrave

July 30, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this

gabe:

Last fall I was yelling for AARON ROWAND and that guy who went to the Mutts, JOHAN SANTANA on O’Brian’s blog.

Of course, I became personna non-grata in his eyes. It’s all about the money. While Brother Dave was impatiently explaining to me why the Braves couldn’t or wouldn’t raise the payroll to the 120 million level, the opportunity to add two players of note to a powerful club went a glimmering.

Now we are faced with the extensive and prolonged rebuilding process and picking up the pieces of a clubhouse clearly and fully understanding where LIBERTY MEDIA’s loyalties lie - becoming smaller in a big market. Sounds like the ATLANTA SPIRIT GROUP. I sincerely hope the new owner of the FALCONS doesn’t catch their malaise that seems to be going around ATLANTA.

By Oz

July 30, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

took you long enough to figure it out

By mcdavid

July 30, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

Cox was great when he had more talent than the competition but like Spurrier he doesn’t look so hot when he has less talent. His pitching moves have always been slow to action and now his failure to make moves is turning games in to run aways. We need a manager that can coach when he doesn’t have the big talent advantage.

By T

July 30, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

Just another awful pro sports team in a city of awful pro sports teams.